President Donald Trump has developed a proposal to rewrite the tax code in such a way that it may render the mortgage interest deduction meaningless for all but a small minority of wealthy homeowners. Opponents argue that this provision would take away an important incentive of homeownership; supporters contend that the change benefits the majority of Americans and would expand homeownership opportunities for middle income earners.

Let’s examine Trump’s proposal in greater detail and highlight how the changes could impact the Seattle real estate market.

Proposed Revisions

The proposal contains a number of changes; perhaps the most important one is the raising of the standard deduction from its current level of $12,700 (for married couples filing jointly) to $24,000. On its face, Trump’s proposal does not eliminate the mortgage interest deduction, but its goal of substantially raising the standard deduction would mean that millions would cease to itemize their write-offs and consequently fail to deduct the interest from their home loan.

Trump’s plan also modifies existing deductions for state and local taxes, including property taxes. Opponents contend that the property tax deduction is another important perk of homeownership which should not be removed.

The Trump administration states that the changes will actually stimulate home purchases for low to middle income Americans because the higher standard deduction will enable greater savings. The proposal is also likely to trigger a measurable decline in average home pricings across the country which will increase access to homeownership.

Possible Impact

Currently, the Seattle real estate market has a median home price of approximately $722,250. This figure undoubtedly places Seattle among the most expensive real estate market in the country. Assuming the Seattle buyer puts down twenty percent, this median price means that the typical Seattle homeowner will pay roughly $2,735 per month in mortgage costs over a 30-year loan. Given its status, there’s no question that the Seattle real estate market will be impacted by the Trump proposal very heavily. A large number of our homeowners will suddenly be in a situation in which itemizing will no longer make financial sense. Trulia – the well-known property data provider – determined that the number of households eligible for the mortgage interest deduction in Seattle would drop from 56 percent down to 26 percent.

Whether Trump’s changes increase or decrease homeownership across the country obviously remains to be seen; what is certain is that the real estate industry as a whole is lined up in opposition to Trump’s proposal. Supporters and opponents both appear to have facts and figures which bolster their respective positions. Perhaps only a fair trial will determine whether Mr. Trump’s plan will be beneficial to the nation.

If you own a home or commercial property, you will notice that your property tax amount changes from year to year. No matter where you are located, there exists always a possibility that your property tax will increase. Here are some reasons why your property taxes may vary annually.

Increase in Neighborhood Value

If the neighborhood has seen marked improvements, this can send your property taxes skyrocketing. If large, nice homes are being built or if renovations are taking place in many homes, there will be an increase in taxes. If there are more amenities, such as nice stores, better roads, and nice, green parks being added to the neighborhood, this will trigger higher home values and higher property taxes.

Government and School Funding

If the local government and local schools are in need of more money, property taxes for everyone in the local area will go up. Property taxes are used to fund public schools for students and they are also used for local budgets. If there have been budget issues, it is likely that you will owe more money in taxes. If a new school is being built in your area, this will also inflate tax needs and your tax assessment.

A New Golf Course

One thing that will definitely increase your taxes is being located near a golf course. Golf course communities are often considered luxury by definition, and this consideration translates into skyrocketing taxes. If a golf course is built near your home or community, you can expect that you will find yourself having the same type of property taxes as a planned golf course community.